Labware - MA35 Multivariable Calculus - Two Variable Calculus

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Parametric Curves and Surfaces (Page: 1 | 2 | 3 )

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PARAMETRIC SURFACES

Parametric curves result from expressions for coordinates that depend on one variable. Suppose that these expressions depended instead on two variables, u and v. For a constant value of v, limiting variation to u alone, the resulting graph would be a parametric curve. For a slightly different value of v, the result would be another parametric curve similar to the first, but slightly moved or distorted. Considering all possible values of v, one arrives at a surface which is the set of all possible parametric curves for varying u and constant v.

One could consider parametric curves for varying v and constant u and arrive at the same result.

Demos

Exercises

  • Parametrize the following surfaces:
    • The square in the x-y plane bounded by the x- and y- axes, the line x = 1, and the line y = 1.
    • The triangle in the x-y plane bounded by the x- and y-axes and the line x + y = 1.
    • A cylinder (without its bases) of radius 2 and height 2 centered at the origin, with rotational symmetry about the z-axis.
    • A sphere of radius 1 centered at the origin.
    • A hemisphere of radius 1 centered at the origin, limited to nonnegative x values.
    • A “monkey saddle” (z = x^3 – 3xy^2) where x and y are limited to the disk of radius 1 in the x-y plane centered at the origin.